Lose weight and look great with these five gym essentials

Does it matter what you wear to the gym? After all, you're just going to stink up the clothes for an hour and toss them in a hamper.

Research says what we wear actually has a direct impact on our confidence and ability to perform. At the gym, that means shelling out the cash for tanks, training pants, and accessories that combine performance perks, like sweat resistance and breathability, with a fit that flatters.

But, what fitness clothing is worth the splurge? Fitness trend expert and MizzFit.com blogger Bianca Jade says these five items are must-haves for athletes who like to look their best while burning calories.

Sarah Wright, of Bay Point, works out at the UFC gym in Concord, Calif. on Monday, Jan. 7, 2013. (Kristopher Skinner/Staff)
(Kristopher Skinner)

Lorna Jane Sports Bra ($63-$66). These sports bras are made from fabrics which are shrink- and fade-resistant, moisture-wicking, and breathable. Plus, they give great cleavage, Jade says. www.lornajane.com.

Zensah Smart Touch Running Gloves ($30). "Most people who run on a treadmill also run outside and need to keep their hands warm," Jade says. These gloves keep you cozy while allowing you to operate an iPod. They also have reflective stripes for increased visibility and a micro-suede on the thumb to wipe your nose if it tends to run in cold air. www.zensah.com.

Underarmour StudioLux Noir Jacket ($148). This moto-inspired jacket has a mesh-lined body for breathability and punches of matte and sleek emboss on the shoulders and cuffs. "You can work out in it but I also wear it casually," Jade says. "It's really flattering." www.underarmour.com.

BodyRock Sport's The Jessica Moto Leggings ($99): Ideal for yoga, pole dancing, rock climbing, or other activities that require extra knee-support, these leggings have a three-inch cinched waistband and pleater moto knees for a look that transitions seamlessly from day to night, Jade says. "They fit like skinny jeans," she says. "You'll be the most stylish girl at the gym." http://bodyrocksport.com.